A chronic upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) is an ongoing infection in the upper respiratory system, which includes the nose, sinuses, throat, and larynx. This type of infection can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacteria, viruses, and allergens. Symptoms of a chronic URTI can include a persistent cough, nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and a sore throat. Treatment for a chronic URTI typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the infection, and may include antibiotics, decongestants, and anti-inflammatory medication. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove any structural abnormalities that may be contributing to the infection.
Additional information
A chronic upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) is an ongoing infection that can last for weeks or even months. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Bacterial infections: These are caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae, which can lead to conditions such as sinusitis and chronic bronchitis.
- Viral infections: These are caused by viruses such as the common cold, flu, and adenovirus. These infections can lead to conditions such as the common cold, bronchitis, and sinusitis.
- Allergens: Exposure to allergens, such as dust, pollen, and mold, can lead to chronic URTI symptoms, including nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose.
Symptoms of a chronic URTI can include:
- Persistent cough
- Nasal congestion
- Difficulty breathing
- Sore throat
- Hoarseness
- Fatigue
Treatment for a chronic URTI will depend on the underlying cause of the infection. If the infection is caused by bacteria, antibiotics may be prescribed. If the infection is caused by a virus, decongestants, anti-inflammatory medication, and other supportive therapy may be recommended. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove any structural abnormalities that may be contributing to the infection such as deviated septum, or chronic sinusitis.
It is important to note that if you suspect you have a chronic URTI, you should consult with your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How to protect myself?
There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from a chronic upper respiratory tract infection (URTI):
- Practice good hygiene:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after coming into contact with people who are sick or after sneezing or blowing your nose.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick:
- If someone you know is sick, try to avoid close contact with them until they have recovered.
- Stay away from cigarette smoke:
- Secondhand smoke can irritate your respiratory tract, making you more susceptible to infections.
- Keep your home clean and dry:
- Dust and vacuum regularly, and use a humidifier to keep the air in your home moist. This can help to reduce the symptoms of allergies and asthma, which can make you more susceptible to URTIs.
- Eat a healthy diet:
- Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help to boost your immune system and make it more difficult for infections to take hold.
- Avoid cold air:
- During the cold season, try to avoid exposure to cold air as much as possible, especially if you have asthma or other lung conditions that make you more susceptible to respiratory infections.
- Get enough sleep:
- Getting enough sleep is important for maintaining a healthy immune system.
- Get Vaccinated:
- Vaccines for flu and pneumonia can help to protect you from these types of respiratory infections.
It’s also important to consult with your healthcare provider for any preventive measure that might be suitable for you specifically.